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Stormwater Fees To Appear On Next Bill

(BEDFORD) - Misty Adams, Bedford Utilities director, says her staff is currently implementing the new stormwater fees, which will go out in this month’s bills.

The fees were delayed a month to ensure a smoother transition. Mayor Shawna Girgis informed the public this past fall that Bedford's infrastructure required serious attention.

She explained the gradual deterioration of city pipes had forced city leaders to act. The combined water and sewer rates rose from $55.28 per month to $72.64.

The new $5 monthly fee is designed to address stormwater problems throughout the city. This includes installation, repair, separation of storm and sanitary sewer drains, and necessary adjustments to keep stormwater out of the sewer system.

Stormwater runoff is generated when precipitation flows over land or impervious surfaces and fails to be absorbed into the ground. Impervious surfaces refer to paved streets, parking lots, sidewalks, driveways, and building rooftops.

Officials at the Indiana Department of Environmental Management issued Bedford an official warning last February.

The city must present a plan detailing a new stormwater strategy by March.

During its last meeting the board of works and public safety approved a grant for $900,000 presented by Trena Carter of Administrative Resources association that targets stormwater projects at three locations: Eastern and Western Avenues; the U Street Channel off John Williams Boulevard; and the intersection of Sixth Street and Lincoln Avenue.

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